There are many words that could describe the strange genesis of Man as Machine. Some may say that it was a series of misfortunate events, whilst others may say that it was the opportunistic circumstances of the ‘Do Band Up’ shambles that brought the band together. Perhaps it was the mercurial workings of fate or the embattled paths of rock n’ roll that brought this quartet together. Nevertheless, and if the end justifies the means, then it’s safe to say that Man as Machine has arrived. Man as Machine boasts a powerful ensemble in its members. Comprised of Rob Visser on wailing lead vocals, Xavier Knox on the groove-infectious bass, Norden Hartman on the soulful rhythm and lead guitar and KJ Forde on the drums Man as Machine has established itself as a heavyweight on the alternative music circuit. The band has distinguished themselves from their counterparts by producing music that stubbornly refuses to be wrapped up in a box. Man as Machine’s music is a fluid concoction of countless musical influences that seamlessly epitomises the soul of rock n’ roll whilst deftly touching on the unmistaken heritage of blues and country. Similarly, as a quartet, the band combines the maturity of a formal music background with a rambunctious uninhibited love for their music. To match their distinct and original take on rock n’ roll, Man as Machine delivers a relentless live performance. Man as Machine’s stage presence, audience engagement and high levels of ceaseless energy leaves audiences rattled and excited as if they watched a nuclear explosion without their UV specs on. At their performances, Man as Machine draws upon their past, shared, and outside experiences to deliver an act which is honed to perfection. Being a regular gigging/touring band over the last 7 years, MaM have shared the stage with touring international acts such as Dead Letter Circus (AUS) and Protest The Hero (CAN) and alongside many of South Africa’s pre-eminent bands and artists such as Prime Circle, Fokofpolisiekar, Lark, Van Coke Kartel, etc. and have been featured in many of SA’s top festivals such as OppiKoppi, RamFest, Synergy, among others. Man as Machine launched their debut album, “Nothing But A Thing” in late 2011, and launched another release in March 2015 titled, “Patterns”, which is available for free download from their website, www.manasmachine.com.

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